Sensibulb led lights(cont'd)

[oldiesrocker2001]

Since I didn't want to Hijack the original thread, I opted for a new post on lighting. Does Sensibulb make lights that can be adapted for the trailer? In examining the pics from maine it's obvious that the units shown wont be too happy about being submerged. I am continually having following cars etc honk at me when I signal and turn or am stopping-especially on a sunny day. While I will be blacking out the top and inner end cap of my traditional trailer lights which I hope will help, stronger bulbs than the ordinary automotive type seem to be in order. Having someone smack into the back of the boat even though I signaled because they couldn't see the lights could really ruin my day!

 

[sailaway78]

Bulb help

I can't imagine the lights are not bright enough. An 1157 bulb is pretty bright, and has been the standard for years for tail and brake lights. If you are having a problem with the bulbs burning out here is a tip you may not be aware of. Most trailer lights are not water proof, and when the lights are submerged they fill with water. When backing down the ramp the brakes are normally on a lot, and the bulbs get hot. Then the cold water hits them and they are not long for the world. Try unplugging the trailer lights before you begin the back down. Keeps the brake lights off, and the bulbs cool. You also might try spraying the sockets and the bulb base with CorrisionX. Will help the socket from getting water corrision.

 

[Maine Sail]

The Sensibulbs bulbs would not do well on a trailer. I also agree that the 1157 types are well proven and second everything N&E said..

One issue you may have is the physical height of lights and the location. If they are low to the ground folks can't easily see them. Try making a light bar for the back of your boat that unplugs and never sees the water. Simply plug it in and mount it to the stern of the boat when you're ready to roll. Up high, stays dry and can be seen...

 

[kloudie1]

Here is what Bass Pro has.. $50 the pair..

SeaSense® Submersible LED Trailer Light Kit

​

Totally waterproof, completely submersible LED trailer light kit. Includes 2 LED taillights, wire harness, trunk wire connector, license bracket and mounting stainless steel hardware

 

[sailingdog]

IMHO, you're much better off with dedicated LED trailer lights, like the pair above. If you get into an accident and you're using non-standard LED bulbs, you might be found to be at fault, even if you get rear-ended, because you had sub-standard lighting on the trailer.

 

[ITMaster]

I have always unplugged the

trailor lights when I launch the whaler. Been using the same set that came on the trailor when we got it back in 92. I also wash the boat and trailor everytime it comes back up the ramp with the boat on it. Also, about once a month I use a weed sprayer and spray Salt-X all over the trailor and the lights. When I regrease the wheel bearings, the light covers come off and they get a dose of penetrox on all the exposed metal connectors and unstripped wiring. This winter I plan on replacing the wires since I have noticed that the insulation is starting to break down and crack in a few places.

I may look at those fancy LED jobs since they look pretty cool, but then I may rather find something on the boat to spend the 50 bucks on

 

[oldiesrocker2001]

Thanks for the response, guys.
What kloudie shows may be what I'm looking for. My bulbs have never burned out since I always unplug before submerging( and to be honest, from road to ramp is well more than an hour for us to step the mast and bend the sails, so they haven't been lit too often at that point).
The stock trailer is simply shorter than the boat and if a following motorist is stupid enough to be tailgating me he may never see the signal lights-especially on a bright day. But then, to ignore the problem is kind of like the stand-on vessel being sunk because he was in the right and didn't take action. When doing the 'driveway check' on a sunny day before departure, the stern "checker" has to look twice to see the lights flashing and he/she already knows what to look for. The light bar attatched to the back of the boat may work, but I think I have enough time consuming steps already for set up to want to add yet another.